Nigeria is set to welcome thousands of communication and public relations professionals from around the world as Abuja prepares to host the 2026 Global Alliance World Public Relations Forum (WPRF).
The international conference is scheduled for November 15–21, 2026, with about 3,000 delegates from 126 countries expected to attend. The event will focus on the theme, “Deepening Responsible Communications.”
The Presidency has also pledged its support for the successful hosting of the global gathering.
Presidency Backs Abuja 2026 WPRF
The assurance came from Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, during a meeting with members of the WPRF Abuja 2026 Planning Committee at the State House in Abuja.
The delegation was led by the President of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Dr. Ike Neliaku, who sought the Presidency’s support for the event.
Onanuga welcomed the opportunity for Nigeria to host an international gathering of such magnitude, stressing that the country must use the occasion to present a more positive image to the global community.
He expressed concern over what he described as negative narratives about Nigeria circulated in some quarters, particularly online.
“This is a great opportunity for us to correct those things of concern to people.”
According to him, the conference could provide a platform to showcase a more accurate picture of Nigeria while encouraging citizens to act as good ambassadors of the country.
Nigeria Becomes First African Host
Neliaku revealed that Nigeria is the first African country to secure hosting rights for the Global Alliance World Public Relations Forum.
He noted that countries including Mexico, India and Germany have previously hosted the international event.
Beyond discussions and networking, delegates are expected to adopt “The Abuja Declaration”, an accord that will emerge from the conference.
Neliaku also disclosed that Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema is expected to deliver a keynote address, while President Bola Tinubu is scheduled to receive a Lifetime Award of Excellence in Reforms.
Organisers Promise Inclusive Global Event
Chairman of the Planning Committee, Dr. Suleiman Haruna, said preparations for the conference were already progressing, with the committee working alongside media organisations and security agencies to ensure a successful event.
The committee also highlighted plans to make the gathering inclusive.
Renowned broadcaster Moji Makanjuola, who represented the women on the delegation, said women and persons with disabilities would be fully included in the programme.
She stressed that the responsibility of welcoming international delegates should not be left to government agencies alone.
“We have to be ready as Nigerians to receive the world.”
With Abuja expected to host thousands of international delegates, organisers believe the 2026 WPRF could provide Nigeria with a major opportunity to showcase its culture, strengthen its global image and shape conversations around responsible communication.
Source: State House / Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR).
